HVAC Tips: Preparing Your Home for a Winter of Comfort

Name: Airduct Cleaning & Radon Co.
Address: 1251 S Front Ste B, Columbus, OH, 43206, United States
Telephone: 614-799-8530

With fall well underway, it’s possible you’ve already turned your heat on during a particularly chilly day. When it’s 50-60 degrees outside, a furnace or central heater can quickly warm up a home. However, once temperatures drop below freezing, your home’s heating system is tested. You may be left sitting in the cold if it’s not up to the challenge.

Whether you rely on a gas or electric heating system, taking care of it is important. Improper maintenance can lead to your system underperforming or breaking. Here are a few simple steps you can take to ensure you’re ready for the winter ahead.

Make Sure It’s Working

If you haven’t used your furnace yet, it’s a great idea to turn it on to confirm it’s working properly. Even if it’s already warm in your home, take a moment to switch your furnace on and make sure that hot air starts coming out of the vents.

It’s better that you discover any problems now rather than later. The last thing you want is for a sudden cold day to arise, only to discover your furnace has gone out since the last time you used it.

Change Your Filter

Air filters are designed to protect your HVAC system from particles that can clog it and reduce efficiency. They also clean your home’s air, filtering out dust, bacteria, and other particles. Because of their important work, they need to be changed every 2-3 months.

Even if your furnace and AC share the same filter, and you just changed it during the summer, it’s still probably a good idea to change it now.

Have Your System Inspected and Cleaned

Even if you change your air filters as you’re supposed to, dirt and debris can build up in your system over time. That’s why having your system and air ducts professionally inspected and cleaned is also important. This removes additional dust, debris, vermin, mold, and more, keeping your air clean while allowing your furnace to run efficiently.

Your air ducts should be cleaned every 3 years, while your HVAC unit should be inspected at least once a year.

AirDuct Cleaning & Radon Co provides professional, affordable HVAC and air duct cleaning in Dayton and Springfield, Ohio. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and ensure your home is ready for winter.

Frequently Asked Questions About Radon Testing Before Basement Renovation

How long does radon testing take, and when should I do it?

Short-term tests typically run for 48 to 96 hours. That’s enough to get a clear baseline before renovation. If you're on a tight timeline, we offer same-day professional radon testing, using calibrated digital monitors with faster turnaround and higher accuracy.

🛠️ Pro Tip: Schedule your test at least a week before framing or insulation begins — that gives you time to take action if mitigation is needed.

Will finishing my basement make radon levels worse?

Often, yes. Finishing a basement reduces natural ventilation, seals air pathways, and creates negative pressure zones — all of which can trap radon gas inside. We frequently see radon levels double or triple after renovation.

If you plan to install drywall, flooring, or closed-cell insulation, test first. It's much harder to retrofit a system once the space is finished.

Do newer homes still need radon testing?

Absolutely. In fact, newer energy-efficient homes are often more airtight, which can amplify radon accumulation.
Radon isn’t about age — it’s about soil conditions, slab construction, and airflow. We’ve mitigated brand-new builds in Columbus that tested over 10.0 pCi/L before occupancy.

How often should I test for radon in a finished or remodeled basement?

The EPA recommends testing every 2 years, but after a basement remodel, you should test immediately after the work is complete — even if you tested beforehand.

🎯 And if you already have a radon mitigation system, make sure to re-test after any HVAC upgrades, insulation changes, or new construction that may affect airflow.

What is a safe level of radon gas before finishing a basement?

Below 2.0 pCi/L: No action needed — considered low risk.
2.0 to 3.9 pCi/L: Consider mitigation, especially if children live in the home.
4.0+ pCi/L: The EPA’s action threshold. Mitigation is strongly advised.

🔎 We’ve seen plenty of “borderline” homes spike to dangerous levels after finishing — so if you're anywhere near 4.0 pCi/L, don't wait.

Final Takeaway: Test First, Then Build

The only way to ensure a safe renovation is through early detection. Testing for radon before finishing your basement isn’t just smart — it’s essential.

Call (614) 799-8530 to schedule a professional radon consultation Licensed. Proven. Local. - Get answers before you build — and breathe cleaner air afterward.

Serving Columbus, Dayton, Springfield, Cincinnati, and all of Central Ohio

Call [614-799-8530]airduct-cleaning.com